Questions to Ask Painters Before Hiring
Hiring a painting contractor for your home can feel like a daunting task. Understanding the most important questions to ask painters can help you avoid expensive mistakes, poor workmanship, and unnecessary stress.
Edwards Painting Company created this guide to help Flathead Valley homeowners choose a painter with confidence and understand what to expect from a professional experience.
Hiring a Professional Painter
How do I pick a good painter?
Look for clear communication, detailed estimates, verified experience, and a consistent track record of satisfied customers (customer testimonials, Google reviews, etc.)
A reputable contractor should explain their process, timeline, and materials - not just the price.
Is it cheaper to hire a painter or do it yourself?
DIY painting can reduce initial costs, but professional painters deliver efficiency, durability, and a higher-quality finish. Improper preparation or product selection can lead to issues that ultimately cost more to correct later down the road.
What should I ask before hiring a painter?
Key questions to ask painters include:
What preparation work is included?
What products will be used?
How will my property be protected?
What is the expected timeline?
How will communication be handled during the project?
Professional painting contractors should be able to answer these questions clearly with confidence.
Cost & Value
What does a professional painter typically charge?
Pricing varies depending on surface condition, project size, and product requirements. Exterior work and wood restoration often involve extensive preparation, which impacts cost more than the painting itself.
For accurate pricing, a site visit and detailed estimate are essential.
Book an Estimate to receive a customized quote for your home!
Is hiring a professional worth the cost?
Professional painting protects your home, extends material lifespan, and improves resale value. High-quality workmanship also reduces the need for frequent repainting or repairs.
Deck Staining & Exterior Wood Care
How much does it cost to stain a deck?
Deck staining costs depend on size, condition, previous coatings, and repair needs. Severely weathered decks often require restoration before stain can be applied effectively.
What is the best month to stain a deck in Montana?
Late spring through early fall is ideal, when temperatures aren’t too cold and moisture levels are lower. Proper drying conditions are critical for stain absorption and durability.
What is the highest quality deck stain?
There is no “one size fits all" product. The best stain depends on wood type, exposure, desired appearance, and maintenance expectations. Professional contractors select products designed for local climate conditions.
How do I choose between staining or painting my home’s exterior?
The best option depends on your house’s materials, condition, desired appearance, and long term maintenance goals.
Painting creates a protective coating over the surface and offers the widest range of colors. It is often ideal for siding that has been previously painted or for homeowners seeking a uniform, solid finish.
Staining penetrates the wood rather than covering it, enhancing natural grain while allowing the material to breathe. It is commonly preferred for log homes, cedar siding, decks, and other exposed wood surfaces.
Things to Consider When Choosing:
Type of siding or wood material
Current condition of the surface
Desired aesthetic (natural vs. solid color)
Maintenance expectations
Exposure to sun, moisture, and weather
In Northwest Montana, climate exposure plays a major role in determining which option will perform best. A professional evaluation can help identify the most durable solution for your specific home.
Paint Products & Quality
What are the best paint brands for interior walls?
Top-tier manufacturers offer durable finishes, strong color retention, and low-VOC options for indoor comfort. Product selection should match the surface type and room usage rather than relying solely on brand reputation.
Edwards Painting Company is proud to partner with Sherwin-Williams Paint, a leading manufacturer known for high-performance coatings and consistent color quality. Using premium products helps ensure smooth finishes, long term durability, and reliable results for every project.
How often should I paint my house's exterior?
Longevity depends on preparation, product choice, surface condition, and environmental exposure; however, we recommend that your home’s exterior is repainted every 7 - 10 years.
In Northwest Montana, exterior coatings must withstand UV radiation, precipitation, and temperature swings.
Questions Specific to Edwards Painting Company
What makes Edwards Painting Company different?
Edwards Painting Company was built around customer experience. We prioritize communication, quality, and trust from the initial estimate through the final walkthrough.
By integrating automation into our process, we keep customers informed at every stage so you always know what to expect.
Do you provide free estimates?
Yes. We offer detailed, no obligation estimates so homeowners can make informed decisions about their projects.
What areas do you serve?
We provide residential painting and staining services throughout the Flathead Valley Montana, including Kalispell, Whitefish, Columbia Falls, BigFork, Lakeside, and surrounding communities.